Introduction
In the ever-evolving world of shooting sports and hunting, adaptability reigns supreme. The ability to quickly transition between targets at varying distances, to handle both close-quarters encounters and long-range precision, is a significant advantage. This is where the concept of combining a variable power riflescope with a red dot sight becomes increasingly attractive. Specifically, pairing the versatile Burris Optics RT-6 riflescope with a strategically chosen red dot optic creates a formidable setup. This article delves into how to add a red dot sight to the Burris RT-6 riflescope, exploring the advantages, considerations, and practical steps involved in making this effective combination a reality.
The Burris RT-6 riflescope stands as a popular choice for shooters and hunters looking for a balance of performance, features, and value. Its versatility makes it a go-to for various applications, from tactical shooting competitions to hunting scenarios where precision and speed are equally critical. This article will offer an in-depth guide on enhancing the functionality of your RT-6.
Understanding the Burris Optics RT-6 Riflescope
The Burris RT-6 is a variable power riflescope, typically offering a magnification range, which makes it suitable for a wide array of shooting distances. The RT-6 is particularly renowned for its clarity, durability, and user-friendly design. The reticle, often a reticle with holdover points, aids in compensating for bullet drop at longer ranges. The adjustable turrets allow for precise adjustments for windage and elevation, critical for achieving accurate shots. The construction emphasizes ruggedness, making it reliable even in challenging environments. The RT-6 is often considered ideal for tactical competitions, 3-gun events, and hunting at varying distances.
While the RT-6 is a stellar optic, its primary focus is on magnified performance. In situations where targets are very close or fast-moving, acquiring them quickly through the scope can sometimes be challenging. This is where integrating a red dot sight adds a considerable edge.
Why Integrate a Red Dot with Your RT-6?
The simple answer is increased versatility. Adding a red dot sight to the Burris RT-6 transforms your setup, creating a system capable of excelling in diverse situations. There are several key benefits:
Unmatched Speed and Accuracy at Close Range
Red dot sights excel at quick target acquisition at close to intermediate ranges. The simple, uncluttered reticle (a red dot) allows the shooter to focus on the target rather than complex crosshairs. This is especially beneficial in dynamic environments like indoor ranges, wooded areas, or situations where targets may be fleeting.
Enhanced Situational Awareness
Red dots, with their “both eyes open” design, provide a wider field of view than a traditional magnified scope. This increased situational awareness allows the shooter to track movement, observe surroundings, and react faster to changing conditions.
Versatility: Swift Transitions
A combined system enables seamless switching between close-quarters and long-range engagements. The shooter can quickly switch between the red dot for close-range, fast-moving targets and the RT-6 for more precise shots at longer distances.
Redundancy and Reliability
A red dot sight provides a backup sighting system in case the RT-6’s magnification or illumination fails. This redundancy is crucial in a situation where reliability is key.
Overall Improved Performance
Integrating a red dot boosts performance in diverse applications, from competitions to hunting. You can maximize your effectiveness in various scenarios.
Choosing a Red Dot Sight for the RT-6
Selecting the right red dot sight is essential for a successful integration. Several key factors must be carefully considered:
Compatibility
Ensure the chosen red dot sight is compatible with your RT-6 setup. The primary factor here is mounting solutions.
Mounting Options
Multiple mounting solutions are available. Piggyback mounts attach directly to the scope rings of the RT-6. Offset mounts place the red dot to the side, allowing for quick canting to use the red dot. Side mounts and other custom solutions may be available. The key is to find a setup that feels comfortable and allows for quick access to both optics.
Size and Weight
Consider the red dot’s size and weight and how it affects the overall balance and handling. Lighter and smaller red dots are generally preferable for maintaining a comfortable weight distribution.
Dot Size
The size of the red dot is another key consideration. Smaller dots (e.g., 2 MOA) are typically better for precision at longer distances, while larger dots (e.g., 3-4 MOA) are faster to acquire at close range. Consider your primary use case when selecting the dot size.
Battery Life and Adjustments
Opt for a red dot with a good battery life and easily accessible brightness adjustments. This will enhance convenience and ensure the red dot is ready to perform when needed.
Durability and Build Quality
The red dot sight must withstand the recoil of your firearm and the rigors of the environment. Look for a durable, waterproof, and shock-resistant model.
Price
Red dot sights are available across a wide range of price points. Set a budget and prioritize features that align with your requirements. Remember that quality often reflects price, so investing in a reliable red dot sight is usually a good decision.
Mounting the Red Dot Sight: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a general guide on mounting your chosen red dot sight to the RT-6. The specific process may vary slightly depending on the chosen red dot sight and mounting solution.
Gather Your Tools
Gather the necessary tools, including a screwdriver (often the right size hex key), a torque wrench (if recommended by the mount manufacturer), and the red dot sight and mounting hardware.
Choose the Mounting Method
Select the desired mounting method, such as a piggyback mount or an offset mount.
Prepare the Mount
Prepare the mount by attaching it to the scope rings of the RT-6.
Install the Red Dot
Align the red dot sight on the mount.
Secure the Mounting Hardware
Tighten the screws carefully, following the torque specifications recommended by the manufacturer. If you are using a piggyback mount, make sure the red dot is not obstructing your sight picture through the RT-6.
Ensure Proper Alignment
Position the red dot sight so that its dot is centered and easy to see when you shoulder your firearm. Ensure that the red dot is neither canted (tilted) nor blocking your sight picture through the RT-6.
Zeroing the Red Dot
After mounting the red dot, the next step is to zero it to your rifle.
Establish a Baseline
Determine the distance at which you want to zero the red dot. A common distance is meters.
Set Up Your Target
Set up a target at the established distance. Ensure it has a clear aiming point.
Take the First Shots
Fire a small group (usually three to five shots) at the target.
Adjust the Reticle
Use the windage and elevation adjustments on the red dot sight to move the point of impact of your shots to the center of your target. Adjust windage to move the point of impact left or right, and elevation to move it up or down.
Fine-Tune
Continue making small adjustments until the shots consistently hit the target’s center point.
Verification
Once you are satisfied with the zero, fire another group of shots to confirm the accuracy.
Effective Use of the Combined System
Now, the real fun begins! Here’s how to effectively use the RT-6 and red dot sight together:
Practice Transitions
Practice transitioning between the red dot for close-range targets and the riflescope for longer-range targets. This quick transition requires practice.
Keep Both Eyes Open
When using the red dot, keep both eyes open. This enhances your field of view and situational awareness.
Master Eye Relief
Be mindful of eye relief. With the RT-6, this means maintaining the correct distance between your eye and the scope to obtain a full, clear sight picture.
Develop Drills
Participate in drills to enhance speed and accuracy, such as transitioning between targets at varying distances.
Situational Awareness
Pay close attention to the environment. If you anticipate close-range encounters, be prepared to switch to the red dot.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Regular maintenance will ensure your red dot sight functions reliably.
Cleaning
Clean the red dot lens regularly with a soft cloth.
Battery
Check the battery and replace it as needed.
Inspection
Inspect the mounting system to ensure it remains secure.
Troubleshooting
If the dot fades or disappears, check the battery. If the mount loosens, retighten the screws.
In Conclusion
Adding a red dot sight to your Burris RT-6 riflescope is a great way to create a more versatile and capable sighting system. This combination provides unparalleled speed and accuracy at close range and enhances your situational awareness, improving performance for a wide array of shooting and hunting applications. When the job demands fast acquisition at close range and precision at a distance, you’ll be prepared.
The pairing of these two excellent optics will elevate your performance.
